Joel Embiid
Joel Hans Embiid (born March 16, 1994) is a Cameroonian-American professional basketball player for the Philadelphia 76ers of the National Basketball Association. Known as "The Process," Embiid is considered one of the most dominant centers in basketball and won the 2023 NBA Most Valuable Player award.
Background
[edit | edit source]Embiid was born in Yaoundé, Cameroon, where he initially played soccer and volleyball. He did not start playing basketball until age 15, inspired by watching NBA highlights of Hakeem Olajuwon. His rapid development led him to move to the United States in 2011 to pursue basketball.
After one season at the University of Kansas, Embiid was selected third overall by the Philadelphia 76ers in the 2014 NBA Draft.[1]
The Process
[edit | edit source]Embiid missed his first two NBA seasons due to foot injuries, but he embraced the team's rebuilding strategy known as "The Process"—a controversial tanking approach implemented by former general manager Sam Hinkie. Embiid took on the nickname "The Process" and helped transform it from a source of mockery into a rallying cry for the franchise.[2]
NBA Career in Philadelphia
[edit | edit source]Since his 2016 debut, Embiid has established himself as one of the NBA's premier players:
- 2023 NBA Most Valuable Player
- 7-time NBA All-Star (2018–2024)
- 4-time All-NBA First Team
- 3-time All-NBA Second Team
- 2018 All-Rookie First Team
- 2022 & 2023 NBA Scoring Champion
Embiid has become the face of the 76ers franchise and a beloved figure in Philadelphia. His dominant post play, emotional intensity, and social media presence have made him a fan favorite at Wells Fargo Center.
Philadelphia Community
[edit | edit source]Embiid has embraced Philadelphia as his home. In 2022, he announced his intention to become a U.S. citizen, and in September 2023, he officially became a naturalized American citizen, choosing to represent the United States in international basketball.[3]
He has been active in Philadelphia charitable causes, including donations to COVID-19 relief efforts and support for local communities.
Personal Life
[edit | edit source]Embiid and his partner Anne de Paula have a son, Arthur, born in 2020. The family resides in the Philadelphia area during the NBA season.
See Also
[edit | edit source]References
[edit | edit source]- ↑ "Sixers Select Joel Embiid Third Overall". NBA.com. June 26, 2014
- ↑ "Joel Embiid and The Process". ESPN. January 2017
- ↑ "Joel Embiid becomes U.S. citizen". NBC Sports Philadelphia. September 2023